LOS ANGELES,CA-Indian actor Ali Fazal-starrer “Victoria & Abdul”, featuring Judi Dench in the key role, is in contention to win an Oscar in two categories -- Best Costume Design and Make-up and Hairstyling. The nominations for the 90th Academy Awards were announced here on Jan 23. Other nominees in the Costume Design category are: “Beauty and the Beast”, “Darkest Hour”, “Phantom Thread” and “The Shape of Water”.

In the Make-up and Hair category, the film is in contention with “Darkest Hour” and “Wonder”. Helmed by Stephen Frears, “Victoria & Abdul” is based on a novel by Shrabani Basu. It revolves around the relationship shared by Queen Victoria and Abdul, who was a munshi in her government. It also shows his journey on how he became one of the most powerful figures in the court.The role of the queen is played by Dench and Abdul is essayed by Ali. The nominations presenters were Andy Serkis and Tiffany Haddish, with Bollywood star Priyanka Chopra as a special guest. The Oscar awards ceremony will be held here on March 4.